reduction coping

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Reduction coping is a dental coping that is used to create additional space for the restoration of a prepared tooth, typically after a dental impression or cast has been taken. Reducing the coping allows for more space to make desired tooth morphological changes, such as modifying the incisal edge, cusp tip, or one surface of the tooth, to achieve aesthetic or functional goals.

What Is a Reduction Copping?
A reduction coping is a thin shell of plastic or metal that is custom-fabricated by a dentist or laboratory technician to accurately show the area where the tooth needs to be reduced during a restoration. The coping is adhered to the tooth preparation and is used as a guide to remove excess material, creating a space for the restoration to fit properly.

When Should You Use a Reduction Copping?
Reduction copings are most effective when the area of the tooth that needs to be reduced involves only a small part of the tooth, such as the incisal edge, cusp tip, or one surface. Reduction copings are typically used when there is an inadequate tooth reduction in occlusal length to achieve the goals of the case, or when there is a significant difference in size between one tooth and its neighboring teeth.

Advantages of Using a Reduction Coping
By using a reduction coping, dentists can avoid having to reschedule the patient for further preparation and re-impression, which can be a source of inconvenience for both the patient and the dentist. Additionally, using a reduction coping often results in a more predictable outcome, as the technician can create the necessary space for the restoration with precision.

Disadvantages of Using a Reduction Coping
The primary disadvantage of using a reduction coping is that it is more costly than fabricating a crown using cast metal, due to the cost of the materials and the fabrication process. However, the cost difference may be worth it, as a cast metal coping will fit more precisely and avoid potential issues caused by undercuts or misalignment.

How is a Reduction Copping Fabricated?
A reduction coping is typically fabricated using plastic or resin. The laboratory technician begins by creating a model of the tooth preparation and then fabricates a thin coping that fits over the model. This coping is then adhered to the prepared tooth and used as a guide to remove excess material.

Using a Reduction Coping During a Crown Preparation
To use a reduction coping during a crown preparation, the dentist first determines whether a reduction coping will be beneficial for the case. If it is, the dentist communicates this preference to the laboratory, which then proceeds with the necessary adjustments to the model. The coping is then fabricated and adhered to the tooth preparation, allowing the laboratory technician to create the desired restoration with precision.

Reduction coping is a valuable tool for dentists when working with dental crowns and restorations. By providing additional space for the restoration, these copes can help achieve the desired outcome while minimizing the need for additional appointments and potential complications.